Many cricket followers who relish the survival aspect of Test cricket would have appreciated day 3 at the WACA. Hot and strained, it looked like it could ultimately be a wicket-less day but once Siddle accounted for JP Duminy (141) right on tea, South Africa lost 4/57 including Elgar (127).  Still the lead of 388 is formidable and Q de Kock (16) and Philander (23) remain unbeaten at the close.  

This match is well advanced in terms of wickets down in the match.  We know last innings’ runs are hard to get, confidence will surely play a significant part when Australia gets to bat for a second time.  Tune in tomorrow via NTS Digital and live.cricket.com.au 

Highlights and analysis here from Ian Chappell and Tim Lane

A monumental partnership of 250 between opener Dean Elgar (112 n.o.) and JP Duminy (141) has South Africa approaching a lead of nearly 300.  The first wicket of the day finally fell just on tea with Siddle dismissing Duminy, after a review, caught behind. Australia wilted in the field frustrated as the Proteas posted an innings built on grit and determination.

Highlights of a grueling 2nd session are here

It’s lunch on a very hot morning at the WACA, an excellent session for Elgar (69) and Duminy (74) sees South Africa  2/183. 

As the Australian team dejectedly leave the ground is it worth questioning the game plan? Tom Moody suggested the home side seem caught up in the endeavour of reverse swing.  We saw good spells from Siddle, Marsh and Hazlewood but Starc looks underdone and struggling with consistent length.

Hear John Emburey and Dean Jones reflect on the team spirit of the South Africans and strategic shortcomings of the Australians.

No Steyn, no problem.  Australia began day two on 0/105.  South Africa begin day 3 on 2/104 with a lead of 102.

Click here to recap day 2 of Australia vs South Africa at the WACA.

Before the day began Tom Moody caught up with Shaun Pollock to talk bowling options in light of Dale Steyn’s injury.